Blanchett is in line to take on the role of archaeologist Edith Pretty, who was the driving force behind the famous 1938 to 1939 excavation of Sutton Hoo. The dig uncovered a wealth of sixth and seventh-century artefacts spread between two ancient Suffolk cemeteries.

Bier is currently in post-production on the Nikolaj Coster-Waldau-starring A Second Chance.

Blanchett picked up her second Oscar this year for her lead role in Woody Allen's Blue Jasmine.

The Dig will be the first feature film project for Misfits producers Clerkenwell Films. It will begin shooting in late 2014.